Kids on Bikes at the Pediatric Dentist in Howell, NJ
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First Visit

Video Games at Our Pediatric Dentist Office in Howell, Jackson, Freehold and Brick, NJOur office, as well as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommends that your child visit the dentist by his/her 1st birthday. However, our doctors feels two years of age is sufficient unless of course there is a TRAUMA or you (the parent) sees something that concerns you. You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that the dentist and dental team will explain all procedures and answer any questions. The less to-do concerning the visit, the better.

When the child is at an early age, the first visit can be pleasant and uneventful, introducing your child and the parents to the dental office.  Emphasis is on the developmental assessment of your child’s oral health.  Caries (tooth decay) or developmental disturbances can be managed early.  Fluoride varnish may be applied to counteract beginning decay on newly erupted teeth.

Avoid using words that may cause unncessary fear in your child, for example:

  • needle
  • shot
  • pull/extraction
  • drill
  • hurt
  • pain

We invite you to stay with your child during the initial examination. During future appointments, we suggest you allow your child to accompany our staff through the dental experience. We can usually establish a closer rapport with your child when you are not present. Our purpose is to gain your child's confidence and overcome apprehension. However, if you choose, you may come with your child to the treatment room. For the safety and privacy of all patients, other children who are not being treated should remain in the reception room with a supervising adult.

The first visit will be about 30 minutes long and will include:

  • Meeting the staff and becoming oriented to the dental office.
  • A thorough visual examination.
  • Any necessary x-rays.
  • If necessary, a diagnosis and/or treatment plan will be discussed.

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Tooth Fairy LetterTooth Fairy Letter

Your child will love getting this fun letter personalized for them from the Tooth Fairy. Not only is it fun, but it also helps educate them on the importance of proper oral health care and routine visits to the Tooth Fairy’s friend, the dentist.

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Personalized Coloring BookPersonalized Coloring Book

Your child will love having their own personalized coloring book from the dentist, and they can use it for years to come or you can preserve it in their scrapbook or baby book. It is fun and easy to use, try it yourself by clicking on one of the coloring books below.

Boy Coloring Book Girl Coloring Book


Five Steps for Baby's First Dental Visit

Step 1

Clinical Examination

  • Complete medical history
  • Knee-to-knee exam with guardian
  • Note clinical dental caries
  • Soft tissue irregularities
  • White-spot lesions, tongue anatomy
  • Enamel decalcification, hypoplasia
  • Dietary staining

Step 2

Caries Risk Assessment

  • Bottle or breast fed at night on demand
  • Non-water in bedtime bottle
  • Decalcification/caries present
  • No oral home care
  • Sugary foods, snacks

    • Step 3

    Diet Counseling for Infants

  • No juice or milk in bed
  • Sippy cups can encourage decay
  • Avoid sugar drinks, sodas
  • Encourage variety and a balanced diet
  • Low-sugar snacks
  • Fluorides – topical and systemic

    • Step 4

    Oral Home Care for Infants

  • Brush/massage teeth and gums 2x daily
  • Small, soft toothbrush
  • Tiny amount of toothpaste, with Fluoride
  • Guidance on thumb sucking, pacifier
  • Response for home accidents, trauma

    • Step 5

    Future visits

  • Based on Risk Assessment
  • At age one year
  • Two years if delayed in development

    • We strive to make each and every visit to our office a fun one!